Cataracts are a clouding
of the lens inside the eye that is usually clear, not a film, as some people
believe. As the clouding worsens, the vision also worsens.

The most common form of cataracts comes with age, like wrinkles, but it is possible to get them at any age; you can even be born with them.

You can’t prevent most cataracts, only the kind caused by injury, but you can slow the clouding by eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, not smoking, and protecting your eyes from UV rays. (Doesn’t this sound familiar?)

Some people believe cataracts need to be “ripe” before they can be removed, but they are best removed when the clouding interferes with daily tasks or the vision measures 20/40 or less, the standard to legally drive.

Fortunately, modern cataract surgery is one of the safest operations performed today; however, there is a small chance of complications, such as inflammation, bleeding, infection, or retinal detachment. In most cases, no stitches are required and the person can return to work, and resume normal activities, in just a few days.

……..and drive their Cadillac or Lincoln.